Sit Happens—Teaching Basic Commands with Grace
Dog training is full of surprises. One moment your pup is sitting like a saint, the next they’re chasing a leaf like it’s the Holy Grail. But beneath the chaos lies a beautiful truth: obedience isn’t about control—it’s about connection, trust, and grace.
🦴 The Four Foundational Commands
1. Sit Start with a treat and a clear cue. Raise the treat above your dog’s nose and move it back—most dogs will naturally sit. Praise immediately. Spiritual parallel: Sometimes we’re called to pause, to sit in stillness and wait on God (Psalm 46:10).
2. Stay Teach in short intervals. Use a hand signal and reward your dog for holding position. Gradually increase duration and distance. Spiritual parallel: Staying put requires faith. Like Abraham waiting for the promise, obedience often means trusting without moving.
3. Come Use a cheerful tone and reward generously. Practice in safe, enclosed areas. Never punish after calling—make “come” a joyful cue. Spiritual parallel: God’s call is always toward restoration. When we “come,” we’re met with grace, not guilt.
4. Heel Start with your dog on your left side. Use treats and praise to reinforce walking calmly beside you. Stop and reset if pulling begins. Spiritual parallel: Walking in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25) means resisting distractions and following divine rhythm.
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